When thinking of taking a vacation to Broken Hill, the phrases “Silver City” and “Accessible Outback” may come to mind. Many people also associate this isolated city to Aussie favourites like “Priscilla, Queen of the Desert”, the St Pat’s races and the common game of “two up”.

However, as a tourist destination, Broken Hill offers so much more.

This isolated mining town is located in the far west outback of New South Wales. Its closest major city is South Australia’s capital, Adelaide, making it a great place to escape the big city from.

Broken Hill is Australia’s longest living mining city and to this day it remains largely dominated by this industry. The city is also known as a centre for artists and this is clearly evident through the many galleries that line the city’s streets.

Its position close to the Kinchegan National Park also makes it a popular hot spot for nature, outback and outdoors lovers.

Keeping with the theme of nature, a great place to visit while in town would have to be Sturt Park. Located right in the heart of town this serene park boasts a lot of Broken Hill’s history in its grounds. As you wander the grounds you will come across some interesting flora, with an afternoon picnic in the stunning rotunda providing a pleasant way to finish off the afternoon.

The Living Desert Flora and Fauna Sanctuary is another must-see. Located just 9 KM out of the city, this park boasts some of Australia’s most beautiful and unique flora and fauna. Take a guided tour and discover the cultural walking trail which is overflowing with Aboriginal heritage, evident through the natural and preserved environment here. The Sculpture Synopsium is a favourite here so be sure to bring along the camera.

Broken Hill’s mining history also plays an important role in the area’s tourism sphere. While some of the mining operations are still open to the public, the best option is to check out the local museums that document the city’s mining history in great depth.

The Albert Kersten Mining and Minerals Museum is the area’s best geological science museum. The museum boasts a 42 kg silver nugget, an extensive mineral collection and the infamous ‘Silver Tree’. While visiting the museum, check out the interpretive centre’s hands-on display, which dramatically highlights the history of the planet and the science of crystals.

The museum is a great way to discover all aspects of Broken Hill’s unique geology and come away with a well-rounded knowledge base of what makes this city so intriguing.

Finding a place to stay in Broken Hill is easy thanks to the wide array of accommodation options available. There are several very pleasant cottages, or if you would prefer to rough it in a tent, the Lake View Caravan Park is a great option. For those seeking the true outback experience, the Kallara Station Outback Stay is the perfect option.

Outback Australia is a great place to discover on any holiday down under. Broken Hills offers the quintessential outback experience and will have you coming back over and over again for many years to come.

Author Bio: Christine Barton is a Content Writer for Discovery Car Rental, Australia’s travel focused online car hire company. She frequently writes information about Car Rental and travel information relating to Australia.

Category: Travel
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